Phoenix: Winter holiday escape at the Arizona Biltmore

The Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix is celebrating the holiday season with… (Marshall Williams )

Families who want a snow-free winter escape will be tempted by the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, which is hosting special holiday events and activities for all ages.

For kids who forgot to write that letter to Santa -- don't fret. They can dash off a last-minute note and post it in the red mailbox in the Biltmore lobby. Want to hobnob with Mrs. Claus? Join her for story time on Dec. 8, 15 and 22 as well as on Christmas Eve. For adults who need stress relief from last-minute shopping, there's the Holiday Bliss massage and complimentary wine tastings on Friday evenings in December. Special dinners on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Eve also are planned.

As part of its Holiday Cheer package, the Biltmore is offering special rates starting at $189 a night. Included are discounts and gifts, such as the hotel’s annual holiday ornament, a $25 daily credit, 30% off spa services and a reduced resort fee of $10. Use the code "Cheer" when making reservations. The offer is good through Jan. 6